Honors Projects
Abstract
This study explores college students' attitudes toward indoor plants and pets, and how this may impact college students’ experience with stress. Through in-depth interviews and grounded theory methodology, three key themes emerged: Plant Ownership as a Method of Establishing Structure, Plants as Ornamentation, and Pets as a Source of Comfort. Plant ownership helps students create routines and emotional stability, while plants also enhance living spaces aesthetically. Pets provide emotional support, offering companionship and support, particularly during academic pressures. The study builds on previous research by examining both indoor plants and pets together, highlighting how each fulfills unique emotional, psychological, and social needs. Findings suggest that both indoor plants and pets contribute to well-being in distinct ways, influencing stress levels and quality of life differently. This research lays the groundwork for future studies on the differing impacts of indoor plants and pets on stress.
Department
Psychology
Major
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. Laura Sanchez
First Advisor Department
Sociology
Second Advisor
Dr. Dara Musher-Eizenman
Second Advisor Department
Psychology
Third Advisor
Ms. Christine Shaal
Third Advisor Department
Honors Program
Publication Date
Fall 12-2-2024
Repository Citation
Dill, Lydia, "A Grounded Theoretic Analysis of College Students’ Attitudes Regarding Indoor Plants and Pets as Moderators of Daily Stressors" (2024). Honors Projects. 1001.
https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/honorsprojects/1001
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Social Psychology Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons